Terry DeVore

John Shwartz

     Our condolences to the DeVore family, the Schwartz family, and the Olney Springs Volunteer Fire Department of Colorado. Fire Chief Terry DeVore, 30, a 10 year veteran of the Olney Springs Volunteer Fire Department and FireFighter John Schwartz, 38, a volunteer since December, died Tuesday April 15, 2008. Terry and John were responding to the Ordway Wildfire when a bridge over a drainage ditch they were crossing collapsed or was already collapsed due to fire damage. The approach to the bridge was obstructed by smoke and blowing dust.

     Terry DeVore was a Sergeant with the Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility. He was also a second generation firefighter. His father Bruce is also a member of the Olney Springs Volunteer Fire Department, and was traveling in the vehicle behind his son when the accident occurred. Our brother Terry leaves behind his wife Jennifer, his son Jeremiah, his two daughters Breann and Katie, and his stepson Ryan Saine.

     John Schwartz was a Correctional Officer with the Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility and had only recently joined the Olney Springs Volunteer Fire Department at Terry's suggestion. Our brother John leaves behind his parents John and Toni, and his four sons Cody Layne, Jacob Wesley, Wyatt Edward and John Mason. A memorial service for John will be held on Friday April 18, 2008 3PM at Fowler United Methodist Church.

     A joint memorial service for Terry DeVore and John Schwartz will be held Saturday April 19, 2008 10AM at the Crowley County High School in Ordway. Memorial information will be posted when it is released.